Mercedes-AMG unleashes E53 and CLE 53 models in South Africa: pricing announced

Mercedes-AMG has released two new ‘53’ badged models in South Africa.

Until the more extreme ‘63’ versions arrive, the new Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid Sedan and CLE 53 Coupe will be the most potent models in their respective line-ups.

But how much do they cost?

The new E53 Hybrid 4Matic Sedan is now on sale for R2,499,596, while the CLE 53 4Matic+ Coupe gets into your garage for R2,065,982.

They might sound technically similar, but they are both very different variations of AMG’s latest six-cylinder turbocharged petrol powertrain.

Mercedes-AMG E53 Hybrid

To that end, the E53 is a fully-blown plug-in hybrid, pairing the aforementioned straight-six engine with a 120kW electric motor for system outputs of 430kW and 750Nm.

With Race Start mode activated, which momentarily raises maximum output to 450kW, the midsize sedan will sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds, while the top speed can be electronically raised to 280km/h with the AMG Driver’s Package.

The battery has an ‘everyday capacity’ of 21.22 kWh, which Mercedes says is sufficient to enable an all-electric range of up to 100km. As standard it comes with 11kW worth of AC charging power, but a 60kW DC fast charger is available upon request, allowing a 10% to 80% charge in about 20 minutes.

The hybrid system integrates with an AMG Speedshift 9G transmission and a fully variable AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system. Dynamically it also benefits from a newly developed and tuned AMG Ride Control suspension with adaptive damping adjustment, and rear axle steering.

Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupe

The CLE 53 4Matic+ is what you might call a mild hybrid model, with a 48-volt on-board electrical system and no electric-only driving capability.

It features the same six-cylinder turbo engine as its E53 cousin, with 330kW and 560Nm available under normal conditions, and an additional 17kW and 205Nm electric boost is available briefly on overboost.

Like the E53, it features the 9G Speedshift transmission, fully-variable all-wheel drive, uniquely tuned adaptive suspension and rear-axle steering.

The E53 and CLE 53, as you’d expect, are set apart by a glut of model-specific exterior features, including unique frontal design elements and standard 19-inch wheels, with larger options available.

Equally, the cabins of both cars feature a host of bespoke adornments, including AMG-specific displays, while the E53 is available with the MBUX ‘Superscreen’ which includes a passenger-side display.

Both models are sold with the Mercedes PremiumDrive Comfort Care Service and Maintenance Plan, valid for five years or 100,000km.

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